The 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in the United States for Foreigners
1. Doctors and Surgeons
- Average salary: $210,000 – $300,000 USD annually.
Medicine is one of the most demanding professions, but also one of the most rewarding. Doctors and surgeons in the U.S. easily earn over $200,000 a year, especially in specialties like cardiology, oncology, or plastic surgery.
Requirements: For foreigners, the path is long: you must validate your degree in the U.S., pass the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination), and in most cases complete a residency at an American hospital.
👉 Why do they pay so much? Because they literally save lives, and because there’s a shortage of specialists in many medical fields in the U.S.
2. Dentists
- Average salary: $180,000 – $220,000 USD annually.
In the U.S., dental health is a priority. A good smile is not only aesthetic but part of the country’s culture. Dentists, whether in private clinics or dental chains, earn very high incomes.
Requirements: A dentistry degree, revalidation of studies, and a state license.
👉 For foreigners who manage to pass exams and obtain a license, the effort is worth it: demand is enormous.
3. Software Engineers
- Average salary: $120,000 – $160,000 USD annually.
Technology drives the world—and in the U.S., even more so. Silicon Valley, Seattle, New York, and many other cities host the big tech companies that are always in need of programmers, developers, and software experts.
Requirements: A university degree is not always required, but proven experience and mastery of programming languages are. For foreigners, the H-1B visa is the most common in this sector.
👉 Technical English is essential here, but innovation and talent often matter more than a diploma.
4. Pharmacists
- Average salary: $130,000 – $145,000 USD annually.
Pharmacists are key in hospitals, pharmacies, and biotech companies. In the U.S., where the healthcare system relies heavily on the pharmaceutical industry, their role is indispensable.
Requirements: A university degree in pharmacy, state license, and additional certifications.
👉 This sector offers stability and high pay, though it demands rigorous academic preparation.
5. Specialized Lawyers
- Average salary: $140,000 – $200,000 USD annually.
The U.S. legal system is complex. That’s why lawyers specialized in immigration, corporate law, finance, or intellectual property earn very high salaries.
Requirements: A law degree and passing the Bar Exam in the state where you want to practice.
👉 For foreigners, the challenge is great, but those who succeed enter one of the most prestigious and profitable professions.
6. Financial Managers
- Average salary: $120,000 – $150,000 USD annually.
In a country where the economy moves so quickly, financial managers have a huge responsibility: managing budgets, investments, and strategies for companies of all sizes.
Requirements: A degree in business or finance, proven experience, and leadership skills.
👉 Their role is not just about managing money, but making decisions that can determine the success or failure of a company.
7. Airplane Pilots
- Average salary: $100,000 – $160,000 USD annually.
Being a pilot in the U.S. means working for airlines that connect the country with the world. With the recovery of tourism after the pandemic, demand for pilots has skyrocketed.
Requirements: International licenses, FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) certification, and proficiency in aviation English.
👉 It’s an exciting career: not only do you fly, but you also enjoy benefits like paid travel and accommodations.
8. Petroleum and Energy Engineers
- Average salary: $110,000 – $150,000 USD annually.
The United States remains an energy giant, both in oil and renewable energy. Engineers specialized in this field are highly paid for their technical expertise.
Requirements: A university degree in engineering and experience in the energy sector.
👉 Although many jobs are located in remote or less attractive areas, the salaries compensate for the sacrifice.
9. Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Developers
- Average salary: $130,000 – $170,000 USD annually.
Artificial intelligence and data analysis are the foundation of the future. From mobile apps to medical diagnostics, more specialists are needed every day.
Requirements: Knowledge in programming, advanced mathematics, machine learning, and database management.
👉 This is a profession where talented foreigners have great opportunities, as demand grows faster than supply.
10. Specialized nurses
- Average salary: $110,000 – $140,000 USD annually.
The U.S. healthcare system urgently needs trained personnel. Nurse Practitioners are not simple nurses; they are highly trained professionals capable of diagnosing and treating patients.
Requirements: A nursing degree, U.S. certifications, and prior experience.
👉 One of the most in-demand careers today, with great opportunities for foreigners.
If you already speak English and your dream is to work in the United States, these are the jobs that will not only give you stability but can transform your future. Each one has its challenges: studies, certifications, experience… but they also offer rewards that change lives.
The road isn’t short, but think about this: every step you take toward your goal will also be a step toward a life with more opportunities.